The relationship between gait variability and cognitive functions differs between fallers and non-fallers in MS
Alon Kalron1, Roy Aloni2, Mark Dolev2
1Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel. alkalron@gmail.com.
Journal of Neural Transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996)
|January 20, 2018
Summary
Cognitive function is linked to gait variability in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who do not fall. This connection was not observed in MS patients who reported falls, suggesting tailored assessments are needed.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gait Analysis
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease affecting gait and cognition.
- Gait variability, particularly step time variability, is a known indicator of neurological dysfunction.
- Cognitive impairments are common in people with MS (PwMS) and can impact daily functioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cognitive function and step time variability in PwMS.
- To determine if this association differs between individuals with a history of falls and those without.
- To explore potential clinical implications for assessment and rehabilitation strategies in MS.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 355 PwMS (mean age 41.1 years) was recruited.
- Gait variability was assessed using an electronic walkway to measure step time variability (%CV).
- Cognitive function was evaluated using a computerized test battery assessing multiple cognitive domains. Participants were categorized into fallers and non-fallers.
Main Results:
- Fallers (43.7%) exhibited significantly higher step time variability (5.0%CV) compared to non-fallers (3.5%CV) (P < 0.001).
- In non-fallers, step time variability was significantly associated with global cognitive score (P = 0.001), executive function (P = 0.038), and motor skills (P < 0.001).
- No significant association between step time variability and cognitive domains was found in the faller group.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between gait variability and cognitive function in PwMS is contingent on fall history.
- Cognitive function is linked to gait variability specifically in PwMS without a history of falls.
- Findings suggest the need for tailored clinical assessments and rehabilitation strategies for PwMS, considering their fall risk and cognitive status.
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